Fortunately, it's almost my birthday, so my parents and my in-laws were happy to oblige me. Now the Kirkland Signature 13-piece Stainless Steel Cookware set (broccoflower, yellow bell peppers, and greens not included) resides in my kitchen. So far, I have used the larger skillet, the dutch oven, and the larger saucepan. I'm anxious to try the steamer.

The dutch oven is my favorite so far. Look how shiny and pretty:

I like this cookware, because...

It heats up quickly (about twice as fast as my old pans).

It cooks evenly.

It washes easily.

It's dishwasher safe.

It includes an 8-qt dutch oven (see picture above). I had planned on buying just a nice larger dutch oven (my old one was 5 quarts--not large enough to feed a family with hollow-legged teenagers), but found that a nice stainless steel one would run at least $60. I thought it a good deal to pay $100 more for a whole new set!

Use lower heat settings. These pans retain heat well, so low to medium heat should cover most, if not all, your cooking needs. My mom and I made a vanilla sauce and overcooked it a little, because the pan got too hot.

Cancel your gym membership. These babies are heavy. I thought I'd show off a little and carry the box to the checkout, then proceed to carry it out to the car. I barely made it to the checkout. I feel reassured, though, of their durability.

Thursday, March 18, 2010

We arrived in San Marcos Friday night.... Isn't it beautiful? It should be named one of the 7 wonders of the world.

We shopped Friday night, stayed at La Quinta in San Marcos (not impressed...I don't recommend it), then arrived back at the Outlet Malls by 9am. We shopped amongst other Spring Breakers, including travellers from Mexico, all day Saturday and arrived home by 10 pm. It was a busy place, but not overcrowded.

Evidence of a happy trip:

Full trunk (see above)

Empty wallet (see below)

Here are a few of my favorite purchases:

Original outlet price: $80.

Original price for the sweater: $99

Shorts: originally $69

Dress: originally $78

Roxy hats for bad hair days: originally $22 each.

Tips:

Avoid traffic. We left at the wrong time, hitting Austin just before rush hour, which added an extra 2 hours to our trip.

Bring snacks. Dining options are slim at the outlet malls.

This is only part 1, because in May I'm headed back for a birthday/Mother's Day trip with friends. Wanna come?

Friday, March 12, 2010

The outlets in San Marcos, TX were named the "third best place to shop in the world" by ABC's the View. It is the biggest outlet destination in Texas, and the 3rd biggest in the world. Find more info in this post.